Furniture for hire

Furniture that works. Among furniture manufacturers, it's a claim that ranks right up there in popularity with furniture that's timeless, furniture that's beautiful, furniture that fits. The boast sometimes makes its way into company slogans: "Finding solutions for families"; "Smart thinking"; "Infinite possibilities." But how often are these claims simply marketing lip service, and how often do they really ring true?

At the winter 2008 Las Vegas Furniture Market in January, we were excited to find several new furnishings that earned their hard-working tag. In some cases, "works" translates to a piece that can grow with you, whether it's from one home to another, from one style to another or from one family size to another. In other cases, the word refers to furniture that's flexible, able to be used for multiple purposes and in multiple spaces. In the best instances, "works" is synonymous with furniture that actually performs work for you, turning life's more tedious feats into no-sweat tasks.

Here we take a look at a handful of hard-working finds. Keep in mind certain pieces may not be available to purchase for several months, and prices may vary from retailer to retailer.

TRIBECA LOFT CONSOLE

Kathy Ireland Home Solutions by Martin

How it works: An inconspicuous panel in the rear opens up for easy access to wiring.

Whom it works for: Anyone sick of balancing a 48-inch flat-screen while simultaneously maneuvering cables, and anyone who cringes at the sight of tangled wiring protruding from the backs of their elegant furniture.

Price: $699

TANGO SETTEE

Padma's Plantation

How it works: When a friend stays the night, push the two settees and ottoman together for a makeshift daybed.

And works some more: Pulled apart, the settees and ottoman can be arranged into a great conversation grouping for cocktails with friends.

Whom it works for: Hosts big on entertaining but little on space.

Price: $1,899 in fabric shown

ADELAIDE WRITING DESK

Lexington's Kingstown by Tommy Bahama Home collection

How it works: This compact and curvy piece works in the dining room as a buffet or in the foyer as a console.

And works some more: Open the front drawer, and you've got a discreet writing surface.

Whom it works for: Those who need the occasional spot to pay the bills; not a full-service desk.

Price: $1,199

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3 fab finds from Vegas

Lazer Recliner, from Barcalounger

How it works: It rocks, reclines and glides, and the headrest extends. Available in a variety of brightly dyed leathers.

Whom it works for: Modern dwellers desiring the comfort and functionality of a recliner without the ginormous eyesore look.

Whom it works for: Cooks who like to get the job done quick, fast and in a hurry.

Price: $1,299

Zinc-Topped Dining Table, from Moe's Home Collection

How it works: The metal top against wood legs give a yin-yang industrial vibe, but an extra leaf means it performs like a family dining table.

Whom it works for: Parents who don't want to let go of their artsy sensibility just because they've got kids to feed.

Price: $1,495

The Night Shift

Garnering a bunch of buzz at the Las Vegas Furniture Market was Leggett & Platt's new Starry Night bed. More a concept at this point than a real product, this high-tech bed takes customizable mattresses to a whole new level. Yes, it covers the already established territory of adjustable temperature and support level, but it doesn't stop there. It also claims to alleviate snoring, monitor sleep patterns, and offer personalized tips for getting better sleep. And there's more: The bed features a surround-sound theater system, a wireless connection and a music system capable of storing 400,000 songs.

If all this functionality appeals to you, you'll have to pay a pretty penny for it. Starry Night will retail from $20,000 to $50,000 depending on which features you choose.

Available in mid-2009. Retailers not yet determined. Visit starrynightbed.com for more information.